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Poetry: A girl I know

by Patricia Parker

A girl I know is gaining weight
But she's accepting of her fate.
Her hair is thinning, her neck shows age
And yet she shows no angst or rage.

For every wrinkle that appears
Is proof she's weathered many years.
Unsteady gait, forgetful ways
She still recalls her youthful days.

She once was lively, full of life
Daughter, mother, someone's wife.
Working woman, revered by all
Dressing for the fireman's ball.

No hunchback carriage, wrinkled knee
No aging hands for all to see.
Envied, admired, a joyous friend
Yet, sadly, youthful years must end.

But growing old and acting old
Are different stories to be told.
One is difficult to see
One is you and one is me.

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